A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 33.9 grams total, 12-21 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' refers to a four-sided shape. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term ‘token’ is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

Polygonal with ring-and-dot markings arranged 1:6, 2:3, 4:5. 1.63 grams, 11 mm



Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection, 1990s.

Two cuboid dice with ring-and-dot markings disposed 1:6,2:5, 3:4. 2.31 grams total, 8-9 mm



Ex gentleman collector of antique and antiquity games from Berkshire, UK, having collected for over 20 years.

Lozengiform plaque with tiered design, bow formed as a reclining lion with forepaws flanking a casket; hinged pin above and catch to the reverse. 12.9 grams, 40 mm



Acquired at the York Fair. Property of a Lancashire, UK, collector.

Carved from two-toned stone showing a raised image of a seated figure flanked by two smaller figures reaching towards the central figure. 0.17 grams, 9 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 35.6 grams total, 14-22 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' refers to a four-sided shape. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term ‘token’ is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

Circular oil lamp with low walls and two projecting nozzles, a low basal ring, and an inked collector's note 'AR2' on the base. 106 grams, 85 mm



From an important collection of lamps, Germany, 1970s.

Bulbous body with dimple base and tubular neck with thickened rim. 80.4 grams, 10.2 cm



From the collection of a late Norfolk, UK gentleman's collection, formed from the late 1960s-1970s.

Discoid in plan with a gorgoneion motif; hollow to reverse. 9.03 grams, 19 mM



Property of a European gentleman, acquired from the estate of a London collector (formed before 2000).

Pelta-shaped with trefoil finial to the vertical lobe, recessed D-shaped cell with enamel fill, central roundel with enamel fill; integral box fitting to reverse housing the chord and pin, catch to lower end. 24 grams, 40 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Latchlifter-type comprising a broad shank and thick suspension ring, cut wards to the perpendicular bit. 40.9 grams, 75 mm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by the original collector's data sheet(s) with reference no.A79.

Restrung group of mainly glass beads of oblate, spherical, cylindrical, polyhedral and other types. 72.9 grams, 66 cm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by the original collector's data sheet(s) with reference no.A101.